Pet Parasites in Summer: Fleas, Ticks And Mosquitoes

Summer in Australia means longer days, backyard barbecues, beach trips and plenty of outdoor adventures with our pets. Unfortunately, it also marks peak season for parasites.

Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid conditions and can pose serious health risks to dogs and cats. Here’s what every pet parent should know to keep their pets safe this summer.

Fleas: Small But Mighty

Fleas are one of the most common summer parasites in Australia. They multiply rapidly in warm weather, and once they’re in your home, they can be incredibly difficult to eliminate.

Why Fleas Are a Problem

Fleas don’t just cause itching. They can lead to:

• Flea Allergy Dermatitis (a severe allergic skin reaction)

• Hair loss and skin infections

• Tapeworm infections

• Anaemia in puppies and kittens

Many pet owners are surprised to learn that you may only see a small number of fleas on your pet, while hundreds of eggs, larvae and pupae are developing in your home environment.

Signs Your Pet May Have Fleas

• Excessive scratching or biting at the skin

• Red, irritated skin

• Hair thinning, especially near the tail base

• Visible flea dirt (black specks)

Year-round prevention is recommended, but it’s especially critical during summer when flea populations explode.

Ticks: A Life-Threatening Risk

Certain areas of Australia, particularly along the east coast, are home to the dangerous Australian paralysis tick.

Why Ticks Are So Dangerous

The paralysis tick injects a toxin that can cause:

• Weakness in the back legs

• Vomiting or gagging

• Difficulty breathing

• Full paralysis

Tick paralysis can progress quickly and is life-threatening without urgent veterinary treatment.

What To Do

• Perform daily tick searches during tick season

• Focus on the head, neck, ears and between the toes

• Seek immediate veterinary care if you notice symptoms

Prevention is far safer and less stressful than treatment. We strongly recommend appropriate tick prevention for pets living in, or travelling to, tick-prone areas.

Mosquitoes: More Than Just A Nuisance

Mosquitoes aren’t just irritating – they can transmit serious diseases.

Heartworm Disease

Mosquitoes spread heartworm, a potentially fatal disease affecting the heart and lungs of dogs. Heartworm is preventable, but once established, treatment is complex, lengthy and carries risks.

In some parts of Australia, mosquito populations surge after heavy rain and warm weather, increasing the risk of transmission.

Why Summer Prevention Matters

Many parasites thrive in warm, humid conditions. Even indoor pets are at risk because:

• Fleas can be brought inside on clothing or other animals

• Mosquitoes enter homes easily

• Ticks can attach during short outdoor outings

Prevention is far easier, safer and more cost-effective than treating advanced parasite-related disease.

Our Summer Parasite Protection Tips

• Keep pets on consistent, vet-recommended parasite prevention

• Avoid skipping doses during the warmer months

• Maintain your yard by mowing grass and reducing leaf litter

• Check pets daily for ticks in high-risk areas

• Speak to us before travelling to tick-endemic regions

Not Sure What Your Pet Needs?

There are many parasite prevention products available, and not all are created equal. The best option depends on your pet’s age, lifestyle, health status and where you live.

If you’re unsure whether your pet is fully protected this summer, we’re here to help. A quick conversation can give you peace of mind and keep your pet safe during the warmer months.